In a quiet Duluth, Minnesota neighborhood, the tranquility was shattered on April 20, 2022, revealing a scene of profound tragedy. Riana Lou Barry, a 44-year-old Caucasian female, was found deceased in her home, the victim of a devastating act of violence that also claimed the lives of her husband, Sean, and their two young daughters, 12-year-old Shiway and 9-year-old Sadie.
The family's dog was also killed.
The events began to unfold when concerned family members received alarming messages from Riana's 29-year-old nephew, Brandon Taylor Cole-Skogstad. In these communications, and in a subsequent social media post, Cole-Skogstad indicated his intent to harm himself and his relatives. This prompted a welfare check at his residence in Hermantown, but he was not found there. The information then led police to the Barry's home in Duluth.
Upon their arrival at the East Hillside residence, law enforcement officers heard what they believed to be a single gunshot from inside, leading them to establish a perimeter and deploy tactical resources. Several hours later, officers made the grim discovery inside the home. It was determined that Cole-Skogstad had shot his aunt, uncle, and two young cousins while they were sleeping before taking his own life. A 9mm handgun was found near his body.
Riana was remembered as a kind, generous, and deeply caring individual who was a wonderful mother. She had worked as a social worker, specializing in adoption and home studies, before dedicating herself to being a full-time mother. Friends and community members recalled her as a very hands-on parent who was always engaging in activities with her children. Hundreds gathered to mourn the immense loss of the entire Barry family, who were remembered for the joy they brought to those who knew them. The investigation concluded that the incident was a murder-suicide, and as the sole suspect, Brandon Taylor Cole-Skogstad, was deceased, no arrests were made.
